Court Rules & Etiquette

To ensure the safe sport and trainings of badminton by all members/participants, members are expected to adhere to the MASC Badminton Academy Ottawa (MASC BAO) Code of Ethics and Conduct. In conjunction with the Code of Conduct, the points listed below are expected to be adhered to:

1. ​Walking between courts: Please be aware of games in progress when you are walking by or between the courts. It’s very distracting to those playing when someone walking by is talking loudly or inadvertently strays onto the court. It can also be dangerous if the player does not see someone walk across the corner of the court and backs up to take a shot. Please wait until the rally is finished before you go between and around the courts.

2. Calling lines: Calling lines is often a controversial issue. However, if you’re in doubt as to whether the bird is in, on the line, or out, you should call it in favour of your opponent. Be courteous and accept line calls in the spirit that most players offer them.

3. Sport clothing: We wishes to ensure a standard of dress code on the court. Recommended athletic dry-fit T-shirts, shorts/pants. Ripped T-shirts or cut-off shorts, jeans, fancy or expensive wearables/jewelleries are not acceptable while at practice. 

4. Non-marking court shoes: Our hardwood floors are very susceptible to marking from black-soled shoes or scratches from grit-carrying outdoor shoes. The use of non-marking court shoes is enforced and players not using them may be requested to leave the courts.

5. CELL PHONES: Players may not use or check their cell phones or any other electronic devices during coaching sessions. Under exceptional circumstances (emergency, illness, school/work related obligations, etc.) and with prior notice from a parent/guardian, players may be allowed to quickly check their phones during breaks.

6. Courtesy: Always be considerate to your fellow players. If someone looks lost, offer to help them. Often, new members simply don’t understand the rules and need information. Don’t be afraid to ask someone you don’t know to play with you. 

7. Food and Drink: ​Please refrain from bringing food or drink onto the courts other than normal sports snacks and drinks in non-spill containers.

8. SAFETY EYE WEAR: Protective eyewear is recommended to be worn by everyone UNDER THE AGE OF 18. This will help in preventing incidents of injuries. It is highly recommended for adults too.

9. PARENTS & GUESTS: ONLY MEMBERS are allowed to enter the gym. Non-members (including parents) should get permission from on-site manager prior to entering the gym.

Badminton Etiquette

• One basic badminton etiquette tip is to Shake your opponent’s hand at the end of every game. This gesture is a simple way to show good sportsmanship and friendliness to every person you play with.

• Pick up the shuttlecock when it lands in your half of the court and pass it back to your opponent in a friendly way.

• It’s your job to call the shuttle’s position as “in” or “out” when it lands on your side of the court. So, be honest about where the shuttle falls. (After all, you’d want someone to do the same for you.)

• If a shuttle’s position by the line is difficult for you to determine as “in” or “out,” then it’s best to make the call that benefits your opponent or re-serve if all agree.

• Before serving, be sure to wait until your opponent is ready for your shot.